Can You Pitch Cover Songs to Spotify?
When pitching a cover song, select the appropriate option in the pitch form that identifies it as a cover. This helps editors route your submission correctly and set proper expectations.
Licensing requirement: Before distributing a cover, you need a mechanical license for the underlying composition. Services like DistroKid, CD Baby, and Songtrust can help arrange licensing. Pitching an unlicensed cover risks removal from Spotify entirely.
Editorial consideration: Covers can land on editorial playlists, but they face specific challenges. Editors often prefer original music, exceptional production or interpretation helps covers stand out, and covers of currently trending songs may get extra attention.
Can You Pitch Remixes to Spotify?
Remixes follow similar rules. Indicate in your pitch form that the track is a remix.
Licensing requirement: Official remixes require permission from the original rights holders. This typically means the original artist's label or publisher. Bootleg remixes (unauthorized) can be removed from platforms if rights holders complain.
Editorial consideration: Remixes are common in electronic and dance genres. Editorial playlists like mint and Dance Rising regularly feature remixes. The key is demonstrating that your remix offers something new rather than just repackaging the original.
Can You Pitch Instrumental Tracks to Spotify?
If your track is an instrumental (original or cover), you can also indicate this in the pitch form. Instrumental covers of popular songs sometimes find homes on mood and activity playlists like Deep Focus or Peaceful Piano.
What Are the Best Practices for Pitching Covers and Remixes?
When pitching covers or remixes, be transparent in your pitch description about what the track is, highlight what makes your version distinctive, emphasize production quality and unique interpretation, and ensure all licensing is properly handled before release.
Editors appreciate honesty. Trying to sneak a cover through as an original will likely backfire when they listen and recognize the song.